The availability of quality products for home educators has really improved in recent years, particularly those products geared for teens. Integrated Physics & Chemistry is one program that I regret our older children did not have the opportunity to use. It would have been perfect for them because it introduces both physics and chemistry in a way that they would not have found intimidating. This entry-level, applied course gives teens a thorough grounding in basic chemistry and physics. Science concepts are repeated in different ways throughout the sections, and content-rich illustrations, numerous charts, graphs, and data tables assist them in grasping the subject matter. This method is highly engaging and motivates them to learn about the application of physics and chemistry to daily life.

Created to meet the needs of Texas science teachers and students, IPC consists of twelve chapters of text and twelve companion student activity books, for 180 lessons. While deliberately avoiding complex mathematical equations, this self-paced, high-school-level science course introduces students to the people, places, and principles of physics and chemistry. Written by internationally respected scientist/author, John Hudson Tiner, IPC effectively draws teens by using a story approach to teaching these complicated topics.

Carefully selected narratives profile positive role models, real people of noble character, while offering bite-sized, easily-digestible science information. IPC structures every lesson in a sequential order, with companion activity exercises, allowing your child to advance as rapidly as desired or as slowly as needed. Quizzes and tests include questions and problems patterned like those that appear on state academic assessment exams, so actual assessment questions are familiar and less threatening. IPC textbooks are aligned specifically with the state standards of Texas but meet or exceed the standards of most states.

One oddity about this program that you may or may not like is that each chapter includes a life principle, a quote, that the publisher hopes will build high character. While the founder is Baptist, very few of the principles are Biblical, leaving one to wonder why they are even there. They do make for interesting discussions, but we hope that your teens are gathering their life principles from a greater Source than this!